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Just bought this brass or Bronze item with could be separated in two parts with a kind off unlocking mechanism . Is this a belt buckle or something else and what ? And any idea about the age maybe .

Thanks

This is an external lock of a type that functions somewhat like a Western padlock but unlocks with a flat key that slides into one end. Such locks frequently are seen on old Chinese and Korean wooden cabinets and boxes, both antique and newly made in the antique style.

Similar locks may have been used in Japan at some time, but I don't have or recall seeing any examples. A quick look at Japanese antique cabinets in one web mall showed no evidence of locks like yours.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Thanks and any idea about age ? And I thought because off the pointed pin it would be from like a belt to hold so more for clothing ?

a lock, perhaps? Chinese...

Maybe post a few close-ups of the Japanese/Chinese characters
Ernest

Here the pictures what's been carved on the lock .

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